ahvatsa,
Interesting that you mentioned deer. In cows and horses, if I buy from outside my area, they do not do well at all. The East Texas climate is very tough on those not adapted to it. I kind of think the same would apply to fish, although I don't have direct proof.
I agree with EWEST, that buying locally should be the first option, for that reason and also to promote the survival of the local area suppliers. I would be nowhere on ponds without Todd Overton, who supplies my local area. He will always be my first choice.
